Australia is to ease restrictions on defence co-operation with Burma in
recognition of the reforms President Thein Sein has put in place since
taking power nearly two years ago.

Julia Gillard, the Australian Prime Minister, said an arms-sale embargo would
stay in place but restrictions would be lifted on military and humanitarian
aid as Mr Thein Sein became the first Burmese head of state to visit the
country since 1974

“As a close neighbour, Australia will benefit from a more open and prosperous
Myanmar that is fully integrated into the region,” said Ms Gillard.